7 Best Flea Treatments for Cats (2024 Reviews)

If you have been a cat parent for any amount of time, you have surely had to deal with fleas at one time or another with your cats.

This is especially true if your cat spends any amount of time outdoors. Fleas cannot only be a huge inconvenience, they can lead to bigger problems if they are not treated.

Cat Attitudes is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Fleas can cause itching and discomfort, but they can also lead to anemia and organ failure in kittens if they are not treated. The best flea treatment for cats can be an over-the-counter treatment or a natural flea treatment.

Checking your cat for fleas regularly is one of the best ways to keep these pesky critters under control. It is much easier to get rid of fleas when there are one or two than when they become a crowd.

Once they begin to multiply and lay eggs on your cat and in your house, this can turn into a process that can take months to resolve.

If you have cats that spend even a few minutes outside or spend time around dogs, a flea treatment should be part of your cat’s regular health treatment.

7 Best Flea Treatments for Your Cat

1. Advantage II 6-Dose Large Cat Flea Prevention

Topical flea medication is one of the easiest ways to give your cat a monthly flea treatment. Advantage II is recommended by veterinarians as a simple and effective monthly flea treatment for your cats. It works through contact which means no bites for your cats.

Advantage II is easy to apply and comes in pre-measured doses. The product is fragrance-free and is waterproof after 24 hours. This flea prevention product starts working within 12 hours and it lasts up to 30 days. 

It kills fleas in all stages…eggs, larvae and adults breaking the cycle of a flea generation. Advantage II is available for 2 sizes of cats. And do you have a dog? Advantage makes a great flea prevention medication for dogs as well.

A once-a-month topical flea treatment makes keeping your cat flea-free quick and easy. 

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: 2 cat weight ranges (also available for dogs)
• Application Method: Topical
• Number of doses per package: 6 monthly doses

What We Like

• Effective without your cats being bitten
• Works at all stages of the flea life cycle
• Easy to use
• Requires only one application each month
• Multiple doses per package
• No bad odor

What We Don’t Like

• More expensive than other flea prevention (most pet parents say it is worth the price)

Summary

Bayer Advantage II received great reviews from most buyers. Fleas can be a challenge and it can take several months of treatment of both the cats and their living space to be flea-free.

2. Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Cats

• One oral tablet starts killing fleas within 30 minutes of administration
• Tackle flea infestations fast – give Capstar and watch dead fleas fall off your pet
• The convenience of an oral tablet available without a prescription from your vet
• If your pet gets re-infested with fleas, you can safely give another dose as often as once per day
• Includes 6 doses for use with cats weighing 2-25 (11. 4 mg)

Cat flea treatments come in a lot of forms. They range from shampoos to sprays. Topical treatments are the most popular, but pills can be very effective as well as fast-acting. Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Cats comes in the form of a pill.

There is no prescription required and this medicine is very fast-acting. It can also be administered even if a topical treatment has already been administered.

This medication can be given once a day until the fleas are gone. It kills fleas in all life stages and be can used with other products, including heartworm preventatives, corticosteroids, antibiotics, vaccines, deworming medications, and shampoos. 

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: For cats 2 -25 pounds
• Application Method: Pill
• Number of doses per package: 6 doses

What We Like

• Works very quickly (starts working in 30 minutes)
• Kills adult fleas before they can lay eggs
• One tablet kills 90% of fleas in 6 hours
• Safe to administer one tablet per day until the fleas are gone
• Can be taken with other medications
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

• Pills can be difficult to give to cats

Summary

If you can easily give a pill to your cat, Capstar Fast-Acting Oral Flea Treatment for Cats is a good option for you. It can give your cat relief very quickly.

3. Cheristin for Cats Topical Flea Treatment

This is another topical treatment that does a good job of eliminating your cat’s flea issues. This medicine is designed specifically for cats with a non-greasy, quick-drying and fragrance-free formula.

This powerful topical can protect your cat for up to 6 weeks on just one dose. And in a controlled study it killed more than 95% of fleas in 30 minutes.

This topical is easily applied to your cat’s skin for best results. The dose size works for all cats as long as they are more than 8 weeks old and weigh more than 1.8 pounds.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: One size for all cats (must be at least 8 weeks old weigh more than 1.8 pounds)
• Application Method: Topical
• Number of doses per package: 6 doses

What We Like

• Works very quickly (starts working in 30 minutes)
• Can last 6 weeks between applications
• One application can kill 95% of fleas in a short period
• Easy topical application
• One dosage for cats over 1.8 pounds
• Quick drying and non-greasy

What We Don’t Like

• Pricier than other options
• Can be greasy and have an odor

Summary

Cheristin for Cats is easy to apply and according to most reviews, it works quickly. Your cat’s fleas can be gone in a few hours. 

4. Frontline Plus Flea and Tick Treatment for Cats

Frontline is the original of topically applied flea treatments for cats. They have been in business for 20 years keeping your cats flea-free. It is a two-ingredient product. The first, fipronil, attacks adult fleas and ticks. The second, (S)-methoprene, attacks flea eggs and larvae. They work together to exterminate all month long.

This product breaks the cycle by destroying the flea eggs and larvae. Because it is stored in your cat’s glands, he is protected for 30 days. This is a flea and tick treatment that can be used on cats that weigh more than 1.5 pounds. 

Frontline kills ticks and lice as well as fleas at all stages. It is fast-acting, long-lasting and water-proof. With 20 years of experience, Frontline does a great job of keeping your pet free of fleas and other pests.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: For cats that weigh more than 1.5 pounds
• Application Method: Topical
• Number of doses per package: 3, 6 or 8 doses

What We Like

• 20 years of experience making topical flea treatments
• Protects your pet for 30 days
• Prevents all flea stages (eggs, larvae, pupae) from developing
• Easy topical application
• One dosage for cats over 1.5 pounds
• Waterproof
• Exterminates ticks also

What We Don’t Like

• Pricier than other options
• Not effective for all cats

Summary

FRONTLINE Plus for Cats has a long history of making a quality product. How well a flea medicine works can depend on your pet as well as the area you live in.

5. Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray

Topicals seem to be what a lot of people are using on their pets for flea prevention, but they are not your only choice for protecting your cat. Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray offers you an option that is not only a spray, it is made from 100% natural ingredients.

Another benefit to this product is it can be used throughout the house to get rid of fleas. And the smell is not what you get with most chemical flea prevention products. 

Made from essential oils this is a good and safe alternative for your pet. And it is simple to use. Rub your cat’s fur in the opposite direction that grows and apply the spray. There are several ways this spray can be used to control fleas on your pets and in their environment.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: No information about minimum cat size 
• Application Method: Spray
• Number of doses per package: 16 oz. spray bottle

What We Like

• 100% natural (made with essential oils)
• Treats your pet externally (does not enter their bloodstream)
• Repels and kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae ticks and repels mosquitoes
• Easy to apply
• Natural odor
• Economically priced

What We Don’t Like

• Not effective for all cats

Summary

Natural products are an excellent alternative for treating pets. The reviews for this product are just as good as the well-known vet recommended topicals. Vet’s Best Flea and Tick Home Spray is economically priced and can do double duty by being used in the home and on outdoor cat beds.

6. Earth Animal Flea and Tick Internal Powder

This product is less traditional than the other types of flea medications, but if you shy away from anything chemical, this could be the solution for you.

It is a powder that is consumed and produces an odor that cannot be smelled by humans but is despised by several pests (fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and black flies). The odor repels the pests.

If you are concerned about chemicals being used on your pet or prefer a natural treatment, Earth Animal Flea and Tick Internal Powder is a product that can be a good fit for your cat. 

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: Okay for kittens and adult cats
• Application Method: Powder taken orally
• Number of doses per package: 1 lb per container (3)

What We Like

• All human food-grade ingredients
• Taken orally (can be added to your cat’s food)
• Repels fleas, ticks, mosquitoes and black flies
• No chemical preservatives
• The odor the powder produces cannot be smelled by humans
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

• Some pets will not eat it because they don’t like the smell of the powder

Summary

This product has a lot of positive reviews and it is natural which makes it a double win. Earth Animal has been fighting animal pests for over 20 years and has the testimonials to prove it.

7. Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo

Flea shampoo is a flea removal method that has been used for many years to kill fleas on pets. It is formulated to effectively kill fleas, ticks, flea eggs, flea larvae and lice for up to 28 days.

This product prevents flea eggs from hatching for 4 weeks.  Additionally, it can be used as a cleanser & deodorizer as well as leaving your pet smelling fresh and clean.

When it comes to flea and tick control, veterinarians have trusted the Adams name since 1975. This product helps by providing lasting protection so pests don’t return.

Manufacturers Specs

• Sizes Available: Kittens must be at least 12 weeks old
• Application Method: Shampoo
• Number of doses per package: 12 oz. bottle

What We Like

• Effectively kills fleas, ticks, flea eggs, flea larvae and lice
• Sensitive skin formula
• Prevents flea development for up to 28 days
• Pleasant, fresh odor
• Prevents flea eggs from hatching for 4 weeks
• Reasonably priced

What We Don’t Like

• Reports of pets getting ill from the product

Summary

Adams Plus Flea & Tick Shampoo has a lot of positive reviews and many people have reported having success with this product. There have also been reports of pets becoming ill after using this product. 

The Complete Guide to Choosing a Flea Treatment for Your Cat

Fleas are more than just a minor inconvenience. They can make your cat sick and uncomfortable. They can also become part of your household biting you and members of your family. 

But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Some products can give your cat comfort and help you clean up your home.

Do All Cats Get Fleas?

It is common for animals to have fleas, especially if they go outside or are exposed to other animals. Fleas live on animals. They will not live on humans because they do not have fur.

You may wonder if your cat will get fleas. Not necessarily. They have to be exposed to fleas in order to get them. I have 2 cats that are 13 years old and they have never had fleas.

Now, with that said, just because your cat does not go outside does not guarantee he will get fleas. Cats that are strictly indoor cats, can get fleas if they are exposed to them.

They can be brought into a home by another pet. They can also be obtained from a home that has fleas or flea eggs in it. No one’s cat is immune to fleas, but that does not mean they are guaranteed to get the pests.

Depending on the pet’s lifestyle, some people will treat their pets monthly as a precaution.

If you have strictly indoor cats that are not treated for fleas as a precaution, it is still important to be able to recognize the signs of a flea infestation. You want to be able to head off any potential problem as early as possible.

How Can an Indoor Cat Get Fleas?

You may think and indoor cat cannot get fleas, but that is not true. Fleas love animals and there are ways that your beloved indoor fur baby can come down with these awful pests. Here are 5 ways your indoor pet can get fleas.

From another pet – If you have other pets that go outside, they can bring these beasts inside and they can transfer to your indoor pet. Any pet your cat comes in contact with that has been outside or in contact with another outdoor pet, can be carrying fleas.

From another person – If a person has been in an environment where there are fleas or ticks, the person can be a carrier for fleas that can transfer to your pet.

Rodents can bring parasites indoors – Fleas like fur and anything that has fur can carry fleas. If by chance, you have rodents living anywhere in your home, your cat has the potential to get fleas from them.

A visit to the vet or a boarding facility – Anytime your cat comes in contact with another pet and you don’t know about the other pet’s environment, there is a chance your pet can pick up these pests.

You move into a new home – even if you do not see fleas in the new home, it does not mean there are not dormant fleas living there. It is a good idea to treat the home before you move in. If there are fleas in it, you will be glad you did (1).

9 Signs Your Cat Could Have Fleas

It should not be hard to tell if your cat has fleas. There are several signs that will tell you that your cat is being annoyed by these pesky parasites. Here are several signs that your cat needs to be treated for fleas.

Excessive Scratching and Biting – One of the first signs your cat may have that indicates fleas is scratching or biting of their skin and fur. Flea bites cause itching and this is your cat’s reaction to a body that itches.

Excessive Grooming and Hair Loss – The itching is so bothersome to your cat that they lick constantly to try to relieve it and that can cause bald spots. The base of the tail and the back of the legs are the hot spots.

Avoiding Areas of Your Home – If your cat starts to avoid certain areas in your home, they may be avoiding the fleas. Carpet and furniture are the environments that fleas like the most.

Red Skin Lesions or Scab-Like Bumps – Cats can have a reaction to flea saliva resulting in lesions that are red and inflamed. This can lead to a condition called flea allergy dermatitis. Your cat can end up with oozing sores and become fatally anemic if the condition is severe.

Agitation, Edginess and Restlessness – Being bitten by fleas and itching all the time can cause a change in behavior. Think about how a person would feel if they were being bitten continuously. The fleas drive your pet crazy and they may shake their head, rub their body on the floor or run around erratically.

Red Spots in Your Cat’s Bedding Fabric – This is evidence of flea dirt that has fallen off your cat. The moisture from the cat’s body causes the spots to turn and look like dried blood spots.

Muscle Loss, Pale Gums and Lethargy – These symptoms can result from anemia. Flea anemia can be fatal and is caused by an excessive amount of fleas biting your cat deeply leading to excessive bleeding.

Tiny Pepper-Like Specs on Your Cat’s Fur – These specs are flea dirt and composed of dried blood. They are often found on their neck and back.

Pinhead-Sized Specs Crawling on Your Cat’s Fur – Sometimes these critters will jump off your cat. They are easiest to spot on your cats next. If you part the fur, you should be able to see them crawling on your cat’s body (2).

Types of Flea Treatments for Your Cat

Flea treatments for cats come in several forms. As a cat parent, I look at safety, ease of dosing and effectiveness with safety being at the top of the list. Ease of usage is also very important.

If my cat is majorly stressed or I get torn to shreds during the application, I may opt for something that may be a little less effective but a little more user-friendly. Here are several types of flea medications that are available to assist in ridding your cats of fleas.

Collars

Collars used to be the way to go and they are still a great solution for killing your cat’s pests. Flea collars for cats are advertised as being effective for 6+ months for most brands. There are two types of collars.

Repellant collars emit a gas that deters fleas and ticks from biting. Treatment collars contain medication that is absorbed into the sebaceous glands and spread using the natural oils in a cat or dog’s skin.

If you are using a collar that repels, a parasite must bite your pet for the pesticide to kill it. Treatment collars release ingredients that kill fleas and ticks on contact before they bite.

Shampoos

Flea shampoos are another option for your cat or dog. Cat flea control shampoos get good reviews for effectiveness. Flea and tick shampoos primarily kill fleas and ticks that are already on a pet, through contact.

They would not be nearly as easy as applying a topical medication. It is cost-effective, especially if you have several pets that need flea relief. A shampoo treatment can usually be used once a week. The manufacturer’s instructions are your best guide.

Pills

Pills are very fast-acting. Fleas start dying within 30 minutes and 90% can be dead within 6 hours on a cat. There is no mess and there is no potential for hair loss as with some of the topicals. If you can get your cat to take a pill, an oral flea treatment for cats can be an option for you.

Powders and Sprays

Powders and sprays are applied directly to your cat and massaged into their skin. Some powders and sprays can be used in your home. They are a good option for kittens and senior cats. Here is a flea and tick powder for cats.

Food Additives

This is a powder that is taken orally. It can be sprinkled over your cat’s food. It is designed to create an odor that humans cannot smell, but it repels fleas and ticks, mosquitoes, and black flies. Your cat will no longer be appealing to these pests. Check out flea and tick internal powder for cats.

Topical Drops

Topical flea treatment is a flea medication that is applied to your cat’s skin. It is usually put on the back of your cat’s neck in a line. Topical flea treatment for cats had become popular due to its effectiveness and ease of application. It works quickly (in 30 minutes) and is only needed once a month (3).

How to Apply Topical Flea Treatments

Topical flea drops are an easy way to give your cat a flea treatment each month to ensure he remains happy and flea-free. Here are some simple to-follow instructions for applying topical flea medication.

How to Treat Your Home for Fleas

Getting rid of fleas is a 2 part process. You have to eliminate these pests on your pet and in your home as well. If your pet has an outdoor bed, you may want to treat it as well in an attempt to keep your cat more comfortable. Here are some steps you can take to eliminate fleas in your home.

Vacuum

Vacuum once a day. Sweep furniture, crevices, cracks and other areas where eggs can rest. Sweeping with also suck up live fleas. Make sure to dispose of the sweeper bag or clean the canister well to get rid of the fleas that were swept up once and for all. Your vacuum can be your best friend during this time.

Wash Clothing

Wash bedding, furniture covers and other fabric that your pet came in contact with once a week. Use hot water to kill the fleas. Be sure to do this with clothing as well.

Treat all Areas

Bombs, powder and sprays can help you get a fresh start. You and your pets will have to leave while this treatment is in process. You may have to repeat the treatment 3 – 4 weeks later to completely break the cycle of flea development. Be sure and follow the manufacturers’ instructions for use. 

Treat Your Cat

It is important that your pet and your home get treated at the same time so that both can be pest free.

Work with an Expert

Vets and exterminators can help you beat this problem. If you need help, be sure to get it for the health and comfort of you and your cat.

Final Thoughts

Flea treatments for your cat is necessary, but knowing which one to use isn’t always a simple decision. Your cat’s safety and comfort should come first.

Knowing your pet, you may realize that your cat may tolerate some types of flea treatments better than others. Some cats will not take pills. Others may be sensitive to chemicals.

Make sure you understand how your flea treatment of choice will work on your cat. Pay close attention to your cat for the first hour or two after administering a treatment so you can react to any adverse reaction he may experience. The best way to keep a cat flea-free is through a monthly maintenance treatment.